Mayo Ideas Week kicks off today (Monday, September 25), with the Spirit of Change seminar at GMIT. Chaired by Tommy Marren from Midwest Radio, this is a ‘must’ event for every entrepreneur in Mayo. Spirit of Change will explore the challenges and opportunities arising across the changing international, political, social, and business environments. Inspirational speakers will outline their vision for the future and their strategies for managing change.

The new Council season commenced this week with some significant and positive announcements, not least of which is the acquisition of the new Childrens Cultural Hub at Lenaboy Castle (St Annes), Taylors Hill. I am delighted to preside as Mayor over this great news story for both the children of Galway and the cultural sector.

Hard to believe it’s been six months since Portershed opened — it is as if it has been there forever as it has delivered so much innovation and motivation to its users. It is home to some great motivational speakers.This week Portershed was thrilled to welcome back Professor Bob Rosenberg for an eagerly anticipated discussion on money — your fantasies and fears, what it’s worth, where it comes from, and why a pound of flesh can look like a bargain.

With more than 5,000 students reached, at some 40 schools around Galway, and three nominations at the Mayoral Awards 2016, the Positive Mental Health foundation has significantly improved the lives of many people throughout the city, and raised some much needed awareness.